Are you looking for a quick and easy appetizer that's guaranteed to impress your guests? Look no further! This cheesy, dreamy pimento cheese ball recipe is the perfect addition to your next gathering. It's incredibly simple to make, requires minimal ingredients, and tastes absolutely divine. Get ready to elevate your snack game with this homemade culinary delight – perfect for parties, game days, or a simple weeknight treat. This recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are also quick dinner ideas, ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Items
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it easy to whip up even on a busy day. Here's what you'll need:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or extra sharp recommended)
- 1/2 cup pimento cheese spread
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
- Crackers, vegetables, or bread for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making the Perfect Cheese Ball
Get Started:
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and pimento cheese spread. Mix until well combined and smooth. This is a crucial step for achieving a creamy texture. If your cream cheese is too firm, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften.
Adding the Flavor:
- Stir in the mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly distributed. This step builds the delicious depth of flavor in your cheese ball.
Cheese Please!:
- Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to retain some texture. This is where the vibrant color and sharp cheddar flavor come in.
Shape and Chill:
- Roll the cheese mixture into a ball. Use your hands or a spoon to shape it evenly. Place the cheese ball on a piece of plastic wrap and cover tightly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese ball to firm up. This chilling step is key for a well-structured and flavorful cheese ball.
Serving Suggestions:
- Once chilled, unwrap the cheese ball and serve with your favorite crackers, bread slices, or vegetable sticks. It’s a versatile appetizer that pairs well with various accompaniments.
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Result
- For an even smoother cheese ball, you can briefly pulse the cream cheese and pimento cheese spread in a food processor before adding the other ingredients.
- If you don’t have pimento cheese spread, you can easily make your own by mixing shredded pimentos, mayonnaise, and cheddar cheese.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses would all work well.
- Garnish your cheese ball with extra green onions, chopped pecans, or paprika for an attractive presentation.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
This will vary depending on serving size and specific ingredients used. This is an estimate based on a 1-ounce serving:
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: 8-10g
- Protein: 3-4g
- Carbohydrates: 2-3g
This easy cheese ball recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals and easy recipes, perfect for any occasion. It’s a delicious and impressive appetizer that will surely be a hit with everyone. Enjoy!